🚨 Under the cover of airstrikes and artillery fire, Israeli forces have pushed tanks into Gaza City’s residential neighborhoods, marking a major escalation in the conflict.
Tanks rolled into Zeitoun and al-Sabra districts in the south and Jabalia in the north, while warplanes pounded buildings and homes. Residents described explosions and “fire belts” 🔥—areas set ablaze by incendiary munitions—forcing families to flee westward and southward hoping to find safety.
Mahmoud Basal from Gaza’s Civil Defense said air and drone strikes hit homes, apartments, a school and displaced persons camps. He reported at least 25 people killed and dozens wounded since dawn. Health facilities, already on the brink, are struggling to cope with the rising number of casualties.
The Hamas-run Gaza government called Israel’s plan to invade Gaza City a “dangerous escalation” and warned that an assault on over 1 million residents could amount to a “major war crime” given the collapse of the health system.
Palestinian authorities urged the world to take “decisive international action” to halt what they see as a deliberate policy of starvation, calling the hunger crisis a result of continued blockade and bombardment. Meanwhile, Hamas says it’s ready for a full truce and prisoner swap, but blames the Israeli leader for blocking any deal.
As the ground offensive expands, more families are on the move, with fewer safe areas left in the Strip. “The displaced do not know where to go. There are no safe areas left.” 💔
Gaza’s health authorities report that since March 18, nearly 11,000 Palestinians have been killed, with the overall death toll since last October topping 62,000. They also warn of growing malnutrition, with almost 300 people, including 115 children, dying from hunger 🥀.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
